#HaveAHeart and take a selfie

The Cherished campaign, which ran for the first time last year, encourages people to check in on three older people such as relatives, neighbours and friends this winter.

The hashtag #HaveAHeart is being used to spread awareness of the campaign and staff at the WYFRS have been getting involved.

The idea is to take a selfie creating a heart and so far there have been hearts made of hands, headphones and even firemen!

The campaign was prompted by an increase in fire-related deaths involving older people across West Yorkshire.

Statistics found that each year firefighters have attended over 200 accidental fires in homes of older people.

This equates to around a fifth of all accidental fires in the home each year.

The top causes of accidental fires in older people’s homes are cooking, smoking and electrical.

Around three quarters of older people who have had a fire in the home lived alone.

Area manager for fire safety at WYFRS, Chris Kirby, said: “The Cherished campaign is all about giving support to those who need it the most at this time of year.

“Many people over the age of 65 are very active and healthy.

“However, as more people are getting to this time of their lives, many will benefit from some support and so we are encouraging you to speak with or visit elderly relatives, friends and neighbours.

“We would hope that your support can be offered through a friendly visit and a chat with a cuppa and while you spend a little time with those you choose to visit.”

Follow the campaign on Twitter using #WYCherished and #HaveAHeart